The following note from Jeff Brummel, associate minister of music and organist, was emailed to Wilshire members on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026. A note from Senior Pastor Timothy Peoples follows.
Dear Wilshire,
What an amazing church you are! For over twenty years, I believe that I have pinched myself every single day on my drive into work to make sure that I wasn’t dreaming to be working at such a church as Wilshire. To find a church that loves and champions hymns, choirs, pipe organs, children’s and youth music, instrumental music, and you are so nice to boot!
It has come time for me to end my ministry at Wilshire and move on to some new and exciting things in my life. I have decided that this is the right time for me to step down as your Associate Minister of Music and Organist. My last time to serve as your organist will be on October 18. Following that Sunday, I will have a few more office days. While this may seem sudden and a surprise, it comes with much thought and with important reason.
I will be moving to the Eugene, Oregon area to be closer to family who are needing support and care. I had planned on trying to delay my departure from Wilshire for a couple more months, but over the past month or so, it has become more and more important for me to move sooner to be with my family.
In addition to being with my family, I do plan on experiencing a different career path as I venture into the education world to teach music. My undergraduate degree was in vocal and choral music education, and I am certified to teach K-12 music in Oregon. I have always loved teaching and being with students of all ages, something that I have so enjoyed doing at Wilshire all these years.
I remember when I arrived for the first time at Wilshire, when I walked into the sanctuary to prepare for my first Sunday. I was so excited, and that excitement and joy has never left me while serving you in this special and unique way. It has been such an honor to write music for you each Sunday as I prepared hymn introductions, interludes, and even “traveling” music for the children’s moments.
To spend my days working with all of the various ensembles, countless evening rehearsals, retreats, and just going through a regular average weekday with the staff has been truly wonderful. My collogues in the music ministry have all been a blessing to me with their unique gifts and talents, but mostly their friendships.
Wilshire, through these many years, you have blessed me with your music, your love for others, your children and youth, and your hugs and smiles. Though I have lived far away from my family for over almost 27 years, I have never felt alone here as you have become family to me. Our friendships run deep and will always be a treasure to me.
Your bravery to stand up for people, generosity, kindness, and willingness to be present when others are in need have become the faith training that I will never forget, and I will always remember you through all that I do. Thank you for being so uniquely you and thank you for being so supportive of me and our music ministry.
While this feels like a sad time as we begin to say our goodbyes, I feel so blessed to see what is in store for you next. I will be watching services online and will always be checking to see what incredible things you are up to.
You will notice my absence this Sunday morning from worship as I will be assisting Katie Murray with the Adventurers trip to Boston. Our trip has been many months (years…) in the making and we knew that it was important that we kept with our plan that I was a part of this meaningful time with our friends in the Adventurers. I will be back on the bench September 27 through October 18.
Please know how thankful I am for you and how much I and your church staff love you. You have taught me so much and mean the world to me. I have sat on the organ bench at Wilshire for over two decades hearing you sing our loving faith; your voice is forever in my ear and always in my heart.
With grateful heart, love, peace and kindness,
Jeff
A note from Senior Pastor Timothy Peoples:
Dear Wilshire family,
You have just read Jeff’s letter to the congregation. While this news comes to us as a shock and is heartbreaking, we want to take the position of being there for Jeff and his family; journeying with Jeff, just as we promised we would when Jeff joined this church.
For 20 years, Jeff has played us into heaven from the organ, piano, and many other instruments. He has cared for us, laughed with us, and sat with us through some of life’s hardest moments. His music has been a gift but so has his presence. We will truly miss his spirit and the unique joy he has brought to this place.
On October 18, 2026, we will have the opportunity to honor Jeff and say, “See you later, our friend.” It will be a time to celebrate his ministry among us, give thanks for all he has shared with Wilshire, and surround him with our love.
And then, we will begin a nationwide search for a new Associate Minister of Music and Organist. We trust God will guide us through this process and lead us to the person who will carry this ministry into its next chapter.
For now, I am asking you to do two things:
First, tell Jeff how much he means to you. Share your gratitude, your memories, and the ways his ministry has touched your life. You can do this through email jbrummel@wilshirebc.org or in person.
Second, pray. Pray for Jeff and his family. Pray for this season of transition and planning. And, in all things, pray with confidence and trust that God has blessings in store for Wilshire in the days and years ahead.
We are grateful for Jeff, for the ministry he has shared with us, and for the many ways God has used his gifts to bless this congregation.
With gratitude and hope,
Tim